Odor issues in gas distribution systems demand swift identification and resolution to maintain the safety and confidence of communities served. This blog post outlines the essential steps for operators to troubleshoot and implement corrective actions when facing odorization problems.
Investigating Odor Problems:
Field Measurement:
Conduct field measurements of odorant concentration or analyze gas samples to identify odor fade in distribution system.
Review piping and odorization systems to determine suitable locations for measurements.
Corrective Action Implementation:
Developing a Corrective Action Plan:
Once the problem is identified, implement a comprehensive corrective action plan.
Address the root cause of the odor issue to ensure effective resolution.
Conduct additional testing of odor intensity and odorant concentration until odor levels return to normal.
Addressing and resolving odorization problems in a gas distribution system requires a systematic and thorough approach. By combining field measurements, gas analysis, and well-defined corrective action plans, operators can identify root causes and implement effective solutions. Continuous monitoring and testing ensure the sustained effectiveness of odorization, upholding the safety standards of gas distribution systems.
Low Odor Intensity:
Operator with Odor Fatigue:
Solution:
Retest with different operator to verify low odor intensity.
Odor Fade:
Solutions:
Inject more odorant.
Increase gas flow.
Pickle new pipelines before commissioning or post hydro-test.
Inaccurate Testing:
Solution:
Follow ASTM D1945, D1988 and D6273 testing procedures.
Odorizer Failure:
Solutions:
Check the odorizer for proper operation and adjust as indicated.
Verify injection is occurring.
Check for odorant tank level.
Strong Odor Intensity:
Over-Odorization due to Odorizer Failure:
Solution:
Verify Odorizer injection rate is programmed correctly.
Verify pipeline flow rate is correct and injecting proportional to flow.